A great opportunity for passionate students to pursue their studies abroad. Faced with the continued rise in tuition fees worldwide, more and more African and international students are seeking credible alternatives for their higher education.

In 2026, several countries, primarily in Europe and Latin America, continue to offer free or very low-cost university education, including for international students. Which countries are these? Which systems actually work? Where and how do you enroll? Here's an overview of accessible academic destinations that don't compromise on the quality of education.

Germany: Academic excellence without the cost

In Germany, public universities do not charge tuition fees to international students, with the exception of Baden-Württemberg. The German system emphasizes scientific rigor and employability, particularly in engineering, medicine, and economics. Students pay only administrative fees, generally between €150 and €350 per semester, which sometimes include public transportation. After graduation, an 18-month visa allows students to look for work in Germany.

Norway: Studying for free despite a high cost

Norway remains one of the few countries to offer completely free public higher education, regardless of nationality. Norwegian universities are renowned in environmental science, renewable energy, and marine studies. However, the cost of living is high, reaching up to €1,500 per month. Many programs are taught in English, but learning Norwegian remains an asset for employment.

Argentina: The university open to all

In Latin America, Argentina stands out as an exception. Public universities, including the prestigious University of Buenos Aires, are entirely free, even for international students. Programs in social sciences, medicine, and agriculture are renowned. The cost of living remains relatively affordable, between 500 and 800 euros per month, but fluency in Spanish is essential for attending classes.

Slande: Research at the heart of nature

Iceland also offers free public education. Icelandic universities primarily attract students interested in geothermal energy, volcanology, and Arctic studies. Programs are mostly taught in English, particularly at the master's level. The main challenge remains housing, in a country where the cost of living often exceeds €1,000 per month.

Czech Republic: Free subject to language requirements

In the Czech Republic, university studies are free only in Czech. Programs taught in English are fee-based. The country is attractive due to its reasonable cost of living, especially outside Prague, and the quality of its historic institutions such as Charles University. For students willing to learn the local language, this remains a strategic opportunity.

Denmark: Innovation and targeted scholarships

Denmark offers free tuition to students from the European Union. For non-EU students, numerous scholarships significantly reduce costs. The Danish system is renowned for its participatory teaching methods and close ties with the professional world. Student work is permitted and often encouraged.

Sweden: Targeted free education and accessible doctorates

In Sweden, bachelor's and master's degrees are tuition-based for non-EU students, but doctoral programs are fully funded. The country invests heavily in research, particularly in sustainability and green technologies. National scholarships also help fund some international master's programs.

Greece and Austria: moderate fees and a strong academic heritage

Greece and Austria offer relatively low university fees, ranging from €700 to €4,000 per year depending on the student's status. These countries remain attractive for studies in the humanities, engineering, arts, and social sciences, with a generally manageable cost of living.